The Congressman 2016

     Congressman Charlie Winship represents the state of Maine.  He was caught on video failing to stand and recite the pledge of allegiance at the opening of Congress.  He actually had his feet on a desk.  The media is taking him to the cleaners over one of America’s most cherished patriotic symbols.  Winship is working through a divorce with his wife and he feels his life is spiraling out of control.  He journeys to a remote island in the Atlantic with his aide Ben.  There is a battle going on between the residents and a corporation over the fishing grounds. 

     This coastal area of Maine is very beautiful but it can also be dangerous.  One common denominator about the news media, if there is any kind of story about someone or something, it can be blown way out of proportion!!   It is all in the name of ‘news’ reporting!!  There can be a LOT of backstabbing in politics too.  This film feels like a Lifetime or a Hallmark movie but it's not.  3* (This movie is OK) 

98 min, Drama directed by Jared Martin, Robert Mrazek with Treat Williams, Elizabeth Marvel, Ryan Merriman, Chris Conroy, George Hamilton, Marshall Bell Fritz Weaver, Jayne Atkinson, Kim Blacklock, Josh Mosztel.

Note:  Imdb 6.1 out of 10, 33% critic 41% audience on Rotten Tomatoes, Amazon 3.9* out of 5* with 242 reviews, Washington Post 1 ½* of 4*.

Special Note:  The directorial debut of former US Representative Robert Mrazek (D-NY).  Filmed in Augusta, Rockland and Monhegan Island, Maine.  Robert retired from Congress in 1993 amid accusations of impropriety during the 1992 House banking scandal.  Elizabeth Marvel is playing Madam President on Homeland, this current season and last season.  Some of the island of the residents did not want this film to be shot on the island.  Tensions eased when the island church was turned into a temporary theater and the first cut was shown.  All of the equipment on the lobster boats is real.  Actors spent two days learning how to handle baiting, lowering and raising the traps.  If not done properly, equipment or a hand can be lost!!